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This item is an applet-based problem for introductory physics on the topic of inertia in motion. A hockey puck moving on a frictionless air hockey table is given a momentary push in the +y direction. What is the motion of the puck after the push? The user chooses from four animations that represent possible results. Physlet-based problems are intended to probe student understanding, elicit misconceptions, and serve as a springboard for discussion. Electronic student response systems (clickers) are often used to allow anonymous "voting" on the correct answer.

Standards (4)

Next Generation Science Standards

Disciplinary Core Ideas (K-12)

Forces and Motion (PS2.A)

The motion of an object is determined by the sum of the forces acting on it; if the total force on the object is not zero, its motion will change. The greater the mass of the object, the greater the force needed to achieve the same change in motion. For any given object, a larger force causes a larger change in motion. (6-8)

All positions of objects and the directions of forces and motions must be described in an arbitrarily chosen reference frame and arbitrarily chosen units of size. In order to share information with other people, these choices must also be shared. (6-8)

AAAS Benchmark Alignments (2008 Version)

4. The Physical Setting

4F. Motion

6-8: 4F/M3a. An unbalanced force acting on an object changes its speed or direction of motion, or both.

9-12: 4F/H8. Any object maintains a constant speed and direction of motion unless an unbalanced outside force acts on it.

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A companion physlet-based problem. A satellite traveling at constant velocity is given a sustained push produced by rocket thrust. How does the resulting motion differ when this type of force is applied?